Idaho’s largest wildfire of 2022 is officially 100% contained

13 November 2022

Published by: https://www.bigcountrynewsconnection.com

USA – SALMON – According to the U.S. Forest Service, the Moose Wildfire reached 100% containment on November 10th. The 4 month long fire originally started on July 17th and burned over 130,000 acres in the Salmon-Challis National Forest.

The Moose Fire started on Sunday, July 17th, 2022, at approximately 4:00 pm. The fire is located in the Salmon River mountains, 17 miles north of Salmon, Idaho. This area impacted was a mix of federal and private land. The terrain was difficult, and the fire burned in grass, shrubs and timber.

In late July, investigators with the U.S. Forest Service determined the Moose Wildfire was caused by an unextinguished and unattended campfire, which spread to adjacent vegetation.

The fire raged on throughout summer 2022 causing road closures, evacuations, and even the death of 2 firefighting helicopter pilots. Over 1,500 personnel staffed the fire during it’s multi month burn time. Dry and Windy weather left the fire spreading sometimes doubling in size over the course of a day.

The Salmon-Challis National Forest would like to remind forest visitors to be careful with all potential sources of wildfire ignition during the summer months. Be mindful of parking vehicles in flammable vegetation and use and disposal of cigarettes. Take care to secure items on trailers and truck beds, including chains and other metal objects. Always ensure to drown and thoroughly stir campfires, where allowed during Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, prior to your departure. Check all fire restrictions before heading out into the forest. With everyone’s cooperation, we can help to avoid future wildfires.